“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:13
Shortly after trusting Christ as my Savior I discovered this wonderful verse and clung to it like a drowning man clings to a life preserver. I knew from the very beginning that I was weak and could never live as a Christian should without divine help. As I struggled to overcome various sins I quoted this verse over and over again–I still do today!
This glorious truth has helped many others as well. But some folks have misunderstood. The assurance that God will give us the strength to do His will does not mean it will be quick or easy or fun. Often times the path to victory is through blood, sweat and tears. Don’t assume that, because you are struggling, God isn’t helping you. Sometimes the difficulty is by divine design. God could make it easier, but He doesn’t. Here’s why—you are working on one thing and God is working on two– your problem and you! God uses the process to develop your character, conforming you to the image of His dear Son. He knows “easy” isn’t always best, and that the happiness you seek can only come through holiness.
Sometimes God delays the answer to our prayers and withholds His help because He knows we need the struggle. We long for a quick and easy way out, but God knows we need the opposite. Just as you cannot liberate the butterfly from the cocoon without killing it, we need the struggle to make us strong. Do not be discouraged when your efforts seem futile. Regardless of what you are going through, God is able to meet your need. He brought you to it and He will bring you through it. If you live in the sunshine of His bright promise it will help you to have hope when all seems doom and gloom. Claim it today! – HDS
David Stone
Lakeway Baptist Church
5801 FM 1960 E
Humble, TX. 77346
